Turks and Caicos, April 11, 2017 – Providenciales – The Ministry of Health explains that the possible reintroduction of measles into the country through an airline worker last month is being taken seriously and an investigation into the potential impact was launched. The crew member from WestJest who was confirmed to have measles did not deplane when the flight from Canada landed in Providenciales.
The information comes following the Ministry of Health’s investigation into the case, unofficially reported to them, but confirmed by the Canadian Public Health Agency through the assistance of PAHO. A worker for WestJest on March 24 flew into Provo and was days later found to have had measles. The crew member worked seven flights, and although the crew member did not deplane, because of the contact with passengers, who were visitors in the island, it is still necessary for the surveillance system to be vigilant and extra sensitive to detect any secondary cases early.
Measles has not been seen in the TCI for 26 years explained the Ministry of Health, which also reported that 95% of residents are covered with the MMR vaccine. The Surveillance team called the possible re-introduction of measles a threat to the resident population and to the over one million guests who visit annually.
Health is asking anyone who believes they may have been exposed to measles to contact a primary health care clinic nurse, right away.
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